Hello everyone, for those of you that don’t know me my name is Derek Adams and I’m originally from a small town called Lamont. Since I was younger I have been a football fanatic. I played football from the ages 8-17. In between my football journey my number 1 supporter (my mom) passed, changing my life forever. Before she left I promised her I would play professionally one day and have been working hard towards that goal since. Down the line I was introduced to the wonderful sport of rugby which I fell in love with. I sacrificed moving a few hours from my hometown/family in order to fulfill my dream and promise to my mom. I was presented with an opportunity to play rugby full time at the Rhinos Rugby Academy March 2022. I moved to the city of Long Beach where I then committed to an hour commute (each way) for my full time training which makes it difficult to work any other non related rugby job. I have been fortunate enough to travel to many places with the Rhinos program where most of my expenses were waived by their wonderful owners. Apart from those expenses covered by Rhinos I have been lucky enough to have a supportive partner, aunt and sister who have also helped contribute to my journey this far. Though I have played a handful of professional tournaments, (Pr7’s 2022/23 and Rugby 10’s Championship 2022/23) the earnings are not livable and have caused me to consume my entire savings. Although my journey has been a great success this far, it’s still not quite over. I’m looking for any generous donations, sponsors, or support of any kind to continue developing this once in a lifetime opportunity as an athlete.

With your support I plan on covering costs for future tournaments, flights, transportation, rugby cleats, and all other rugby related necessities. Please help me make it possible to continue on this mission towards making team USA and representing our country. I believe with the next big upcoming tournaments (Dubai 7’s, Freetail 7’s, La 7’s etc) I will receive the opportunity I have been working towards which is being paid full time to play rugby and keeping this promise to my mom.

Any help is greatly appreciated.